Amid ongoing controversy surrounding NewJeans, the group’s fan messaging app Phoning has come under fire after reportedly updating its list of banned words and phrases, triggering widespread backlash from fans. The issue gained traction after a post revealing the app’s “banned words” list went viral on social media. Screenshots circulating online showed that several phrases commonly used by fans had been blocked from use within Phoning.
According to the viral post, newly banned phrases include “NewJeansAreFive,” “FreeNewJeans,” “FreeNJZ,” as well as anything containing the name Danielle, effectively restricting all Danielle-related content on the app. The discovery immediately sparked anger and confusion among fans, many of whom questioned the intent behind the update.
Fans criticized HYBE and the app’s management, arguing that restricting such phrases stripped Phoning of its original purpose as a platform for genuine fan–artist communication. Some commented that there was “no point in maintaining the app anymore,” claiming it had lost its meaning if fans could no longer freely express support for the members.
The backlash has been further amplified by recent developments involving ADOR. Not long before the banned words controversy surfaced, ADOR’s CEO was reportedly caught following one of the NewJeans members on her private social media account, fueling additional speculation and distrust among fans.
As criticism continues to spread online, the banned words update has become another flashpoint in the growing tension between NewJeans’ fandom and the companies overseeing the group. Neither HYBE nor ADOR has released an official statement addressing the updated restrictions on Phoning, leaving fans awaiting clarification on the app’s future direction and the reasoning behind the controversial changes.
Sources: Koreaboo
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